The Indian government banned 35 WhatsApp groups for allegedly spreading fake news about the recruitment scheme— Agnipath— announced for the armed forces, according to a tweet by ANI. The scheme will see the government recruit nearly 45,000 to 50,000 soldiers annually, and most will leave after serving four years. Why it matters: The Union government’s controversial scheme has come under a lot of criticism leading to widespread protests which have often turned violent. The banning of WhatsApp groups can be seen as another overreach of government’s powers. Which ministry issued the order: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology issued the order after the Ministry of Home Affairs sent its input, Economic Times reported. Why was the order issued: The WhatsApp groups were used to coordinate protests which resulted in violence at certain places, the business daily explained, citing sources. How many members were there in this group: The government has revealed details about the order but the ET said that some of these groups had nearly 300 members. Which Act was used to issue the order: The orders were issued under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000. It gives the Union government emergency powers to take down content or groups on social media if it deems it necessary or expedient to do so in the interest of the sovereignty or integrity of India. How is the government dealing with fake news: The citizens have been urged to report groups that they believe to be spreading false information…
